Program Overview

Introduction to the Diploma Program in Gerontology

The Diploma Program in Gerontology is designed for students who have completed an undergraduate degree in any discipline and are looking to expand their knowledge of aging. It is meant for those already working with seniors, or those with a related undergraduate degree who wish to work with older persons and/or pursue further graduate studies in gerontology.

Admission Requirements

• Completion of a bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a minimum graduation grade point average of 2.5.
• Three letters of reference, with at least one from an academic source. Reference forms are available or referees can submit a letter that addresses the following points: the candidate’s level of maturity and ability to work with older persons, ability to complete a post-baccalaureate program of study, and career potential.

Application Process

1. Admission to Simon Fraser University: Students apply for admission.
2. Admission to the Diploma Program in Gerontology: Candidates must submit the Gerontology Diploma Program application form with official transcripts of all post-secondary academic work and three letters of reference.

Application Deadlines

• Spring 2026 (January Admission): August 1st - September 15th
• Summer 2026 (May Admission): December 1st - January 15th
• Fall 2026 (September Admission): March 1st - April 15th

Program Requirements

• 30 credit hours of approved course work
  • 6 credit hours from the two required courses listed below.
  • 24 credit hours are from the specified list of elective courses.
• A CGPA of 2.5 is required on courses applied toward the diploma.
• Those entering the program without experience working directly with older persons in a job or volunteer setting may be required to complete a practicum. Students must be cleared through a criminal record check prior to starting the practicum.

Required Courses

• GERO 300-3: Introduction to Gerontology
• GERO 301-3: Research Methods in Gerontology

Elective Courses

• BPK Special Topics-3: Physiological Aspects of Aging
• GERO 410-3: Special Topics in Gerontology I
• GERO 411-3: Special Topics in Gerontology II
• GERO 412-3: Special Topics in Gerontology III
• GERO 401-3: Aging and the Built Environment
• GERO 413-3: Sexuality and Aging
• GERO 404-3: Health and Illness in Later Life
• GERO 420-4: Sociology and Aging
• GERO 450-4: Evaluation of Health Programs for Older Adults
• GERO 407-3: Nutrition and Aging
• PSYC 357-3: Psychology of Adulthood and Aging
• GERO 408-4: Families and Aging
• SA 319-4: Culture, Ethnicity and Aging
• GERO 409-3: Mental Health and Aging

Funding

• Awards: There are two annual awards available to Diploma students: Katherine Willett Award in Gerontology and Al Eisenring Gerontology Award.
• Research Assistant Positions: Gerontology faculty have a number of ongoing research grants and regularly hire graduate students as Research Assistants.

Tuition

• Domestic Students: Normal and Course Challenge: $216.28 (basic - per unit)
• International Students: Normal and Course Challenge for students who entered in 2024/2025 or later: $1,214.31 (basic - per unit)

FAQ

• Can I transfer courses from other Institutions?: Transfer credit for work done at other institutions, before or after admission to the program, may be approved provided that at least 18 of the 32 total credit hours are taken at SFU.
• What is the average completion time?: You can complete the diploma program in anywhere from 1 to 5 years.
• Can I complete the program online?: Many but not all courses are available via distance education. There are two required courses which are only available in class, so students from outside the Vancouver area must arrange to spend one semester based in Vancouver.
• What kind of job can I get after I graduate?: By completing this Diploma, students are equipped with hands-on experience through a practicum placement. There are many jobs where a specialization in aging is required in community, non-profit, academic, and healthcare positions.